2. They can Filter Water

After the SHTF, you could find yourself looking for any source of water, including one that is as dirty as the lake in the nearby image.

You will need to have water purification tablets or at least a filtering straw to safely drink dirty water, and you will also want something to help your remove the large pieces of sediment and debris.

4. They can Tie Things to Your Bag

Putting together a bug out bag is a lot harder than most people realize because you have to make room for the most important stuff without making the bag too heavy to carry.

Fortunately, bandanas are extremely lightweight, and they can be tied to the outside of the bag. You can use this as a way to attach other small, lightweight objects to your bag to increase your storage space.

8. Bandanas Serve Several Medical Purposes

Wrapping an injured ankle is only one of several medical purposes for a bandana. For example, in an emergency situation, you could use a bandana as a tourniquet.

If it’s not big enough, tie two of them tightly together and then use them as a tourniquet. Other medical reasons to have a few bandanas on hand include creating a makeshift bandage, plugging a bloody nose, making a sling and even creating a sanitary napkin.

9. Makeshift Eye Mask for Sleep

It may be necessary to sleep in shifts after the SHTF, and this could even mean that you will have to try to rest outside in the daylight.

Fortunately, a bandana can easily be tied around your eyes to create a makeshift eye mask to block out the light. Make sure someone is on watch if you do this, though, because remaining alert is imperative for staying safe.

Alternatively, you can use a bandana as a blindfold or to tie hands together if you need to keep an intruder or other bad guy safely immobilized.

10. Create a Rope or Clothesline

If you have enough bandanas, you can tie them together to create a rope or a clothesline. Be sure to make the knots really tight if you will be using the rope to support a lot of weight.

This isn’t something you would want to do if there was any actual rope around, but in an emergency, it could be a lifesaver.

A clothesline will also always be necessary as you must find a way to wash and dry your clothes. Not only will this make you more physically comfortable and less smelly but it will also help extend the useful life of your clothing.

Wrap-up (Get it?)

As you can see, bandanas are definitely worth some space in your bug out bag. Or better yet, they will be tied to the outside of it! A few of the other practical purposes for bandanas include serving as a makeshift dog collar, protecting your head from the sun, allowing you to safely open a hot radiator cap and tying a couple together to make a belt. The uses for this handy item seem practically limitless, so make sure to stock up on some now while you can still go to your local store.